V-V-S used a 1-3-1 zone on defense, but was broken by Cortland point guard Mahar. Mahar was able to penetrate into the paint and find shooters and cutters for open shots, something Cortland coach Jeremy Milligan said came with little review.

"It was encouraging because we had to cancel two practices due to weather and those were zone practice days," he said. "It was a limited review working against the zone."

With Mahar running the offense effectively, guard Zach Whelan was able to find open shots beyond the 3-point arc. Along with Whelan's three 3-pointers, Mahar had two and Qadir Artis and Jack Hearn each had one.

"We have several very capable shooters," Milligan said. "Whelan ended last season with 55 3s. We knew going in Zach would make some. But we have other players who are very capable."

Cortland advances to face Bishop Grimes on Saturday in the championship game at 5:15 p.m. And even with the strong effort on Friday, Milligan says the team isn't overconfident.

"It will be a different style of play," he said. "I wouldn't say we're confident. All teams are very rusty and players are trying to adapt to new roles. I think it'll be a battle and tomorrow we'll have to be aware of their pesky quick guards."